Molokai Archives - Jen is on a Journey

Molokai, Hawaii: Molokai Outdoors Car Rentals and Activities

March 26, 2012 by The Mom Jen 2 Comments

Unlike Lanai where we could ride a shuttle to every necessary part of the island, in Moloka’i if you want to explore the island you need to rent a car. 38 miles long and 10 miles wide, there is a lot to see on the island as my husband covered in the post, Molokai, Hawaii Through Our Eyes: Day Trippin’ Around the Island. We worked with Molokai Outdoors to secure our car rental and it was a great experience from start to finish.

From the airport, our driver Elisa from Molokai Outdoors picked us up in a van and explained that the car wasn’t ready quite yet. She drove us to the town of Kaunakakai and was happy to take us to a place to eat, a scenic point, or to our hotel until the car was ready for us. Elisa not only picks up and drops off visitors from the airport, she’s also a guide, a Molokai native, and can tell us many stories of the island!

Quite hungry from our flights from Lanai to Oahu, then Oahu to Molokai, we decided to be dropped off at Molokai Pizza Cafe in Kaunakakai. A little dine-in/take-out family-style restaurant, we were ready to have a staple that reminded us of home! The pizza was really delicious! With the driver on call, we walked through the quaint town of Kaunakakai and explored the shops and purchased some items for our room at the local grocery store. We decided to have Elisa take us a few miles down the road to our hotel, and within an hour our car was delivered to us. A white Nissan Xterra was our ride for the 4 days on the island. It was plenty roomy for the two of us, had 4 wheel drive if needed (we didn’t use it), and had proper air conditioning when we needed it. On the last evening of our trip we discovered a screw in our tire. The car came with a pump and patch kit, so we decided to pump air into the flat tire and wait until morning to see what we needed to do. Luckily by morning, the tire was still holding air, we didn’t drive much that day and returned it as we left to get it fixed.We were able to have Elisa’s cell number throughout our stay and aside from the tire, the car was perfect for our needs!

Not only does Molokai Outdoors deal with car rentals and van service from the airport, but you can look them as they specialize in the following…

-Saint Damien Pilgrimage

-Kaluapapa and Moloka’ Mule Ride

-Scenic Flights and Guided Hikes to Kaluapapa

-Private Charters and Island Tours

-Halawa Valley Waterfall Hike

-Water Activities:

-Kayaking, Snorkeling, Fishing, Kayak Fishing, and Whale Watching

-Equipment Rentals

-Air Travel, Accommodations, and Molokai/Maui Ferry

…much more!

If you get the opportunity to visit Molokai, make Molokai Outdoors your go-to vacation specialists! To find out more, visit their site and social media pages below!

Molokai Outdoors on the web

Molokai Outdoors on Twitter

Molokai Outdoors on Facebook

Thanks to the Molokai Visitors Bureau and Molokai Outdoors for our 4 day car rental. Gas was paid by us and all opinions are own.

Molokai, Hawaii Through Our Eyes: Day Trippin’ Around the Island

March 26, 2012 by The Mom Jen 5 Comments

Written by my husband:

Travelers lucky enough to visit the island of Molokai will be treated to a unique Hawaiian experience. Currently branded “Hawaiian by Nature”, the mana (power) of this island is truly is its bold connection to the culture and traditions of old Hawaii. While other islands have embraced the tourism industry, Molokai has persistently turned their backs to cruise ships, though small numbers of visitors are welcomed as sister and brother. With natural wonders at every turn and a postcard picture just waiting for you to open the shutter, Molokai offers an experience not found anywhere else on Earth.Commonly referred to as “The Most Hawaiian Island”, Molokai sports an estimated population of 8,000 residents. Nearly 40% of these are of Hawaiian descent and some of the locals we had the pleasure of meeting have never even left the state of Hawaii (why would you?), nor have they visited the other islands in the state. Populated over the eons by wayward flora and fauna set adrift by the whims of Mother Nature, Molokai was eventually settled by adventurous sailors from the islands of the South Pacific. Early inhabitants found fertile land for farming and a bounty of resources from the ocean and developed traditions of hard work and a spiritual oneness with the island that continues today. Our visit to Molokai included all of the rest and relaxation anyone could ask for. However, you may find that this very quiet and very rural island may be too relaxing and if you get the urge to explore this island will not disappoint.

We decided to drive east from our hotel in Kaunakakai along the Kamehameha V Highway and where treated to serene vistas of palm lined beaches bordered by ancient fish ponds that grace the south shore of the island. This south shore is graced with an intricate fringing shallow reef system that extends ½ off shore as well as occasional glimpses of distant whales breeching in the Kalohi Channel with the Island of Lanai as a backdrop.

Traveling east, the road gradually narrows and the silhouette of Maui appears across the Auau Channel. Eventually the ragged nature of the coast forces the road up through lush mountain valleys and over the crest of the ancient shield volcano and down into the secluded Halawa Valley.Our second day on the island included a trip through Molokai’s burgeoning agricultural center. Traveling past fields of corn, soybeans, coffee and macadamia nuts we sauntered over to the north side of the island.

The Kalaupapa Lookout treats visitors with breathtaking views of the Makanalua Peninsula with the tallest sea cliffs in the world in the distance.

This isolated Peninsula on the north side of Molokai is the site where a selfless man spent 16 years ministering to those who suffered from Hansen’s disease which led to him eventually succumbing to the disease himself.

With a church named after him, this man, Saint Damien, left a legacy of selflessness and compassion that will inspire all. The island is full of faith-strong citizens, you see that imminent in the many denominations and churches spread over the island.

Heading off the beaten path along a dirt road for 9 miles led us through the Molokai Forest Reserve. This forest is a striking contrast to the tropical beaches of the south shore. Abounding in lush vegetation and draped in a cool fog, this road through the forest reserve promises spectacular views of the north shore. However, ominous black clouds and the single lane dirt road where beyond my off-road confidence and I chickened out before making it to the lookout point, definitely a must do when I’m lucky enough to get back to the island.

We spent our last day on the island touring the west end of Molokai. As you pass the airport westbound on the Maunaloa Highway, the fields of central Molokai gradually give way to the rolling hills and ranches of west Molokai.The road ends in the small town of Maunaloa where we visited the Big Wind Kite Factory. This whimsical shop has the best collection of Hawaiian books that I’ve found in my visits to the island along with a unique assortment of gifts and unusual items. We then rolled down the hill to the Kaluakoi area, home to a variety of vacation rentals and estates.

This end of the island possesses a wide variety of beaches from small coves to wide white sand expanses.

Each beach access road ended at a secluded stretch of beach totally different from the one we just left minutes ago. Our favorite was the sheltered cove known as Dixie Maru Beach which is perfect for snorkeling had I not been getting over an illness.For the Hawaiian visitor who is looking to truly escape the commercial glitz of the other islands, Molokai offers a unique experience. Expect to find beautiful beaches, forests and towns with a minimum of bustle and you will be satisfied. A little aloha goes a long way on Molokai and the island will truly inspire.

Molokai, Hawaii: Hotel Molokai & Hula Shores Restaurant Review

March 19, 2012 by The Mom Jen 19 Comments

On Kamiloloa Beach just outside of the largest town of Kaunakakai you’ll find one very special hotel, Hotel Molokai. Special for many reasons, but unique in that it’s the only hotel on the island of Molokai. You’ll find condos, rentals, and maybe even some campsites on the island, but as a tourist, Hotel Molokai is your very best bet, this was our postcard-worthy-view each and every day from our room…!

When visitors come to the island, there are few extra-curricular activities, thus relaxation is first and foremost on their mind. We overheard many tourists speak of their return to the island for it’s most Hawaiian experience, they are there to getaway from it all in all aspects, though the creature comforts of home you can still find at Hotel Molokai. From the outside, bungalows that blend in with the style and feel of the island, nothing flashy. Though once you open the door to your room, the modern Polynesian decor and technology will please even the pickiest traveler.

Approaching our bungalow, the plumeria trees, flowers, and palms gave us the necessary feast for our senses as a tropical island usually does.

As far as our home for the next 3 nights, our bed was the best part of the room, the tans, turquoise, and copper colors and throw pillows gave this beach sanctuary such a cozy feel I looked forward to it each and every night.

Alarm clock, ironing board, AC unit, microwave, coffee maker, and fridge plus the free wi-fi and cable television made this getaway up to date with modern amenities if you absolutely need it, but we maybe watched one television show in the 3 nights we were there! Our television was the endless view outside our lanai. The table and chairs made this a staple spot for reading and the porch swing had a wide seat that you could throw a pillow on and take that afternoon nap!

Between our room and the sparkling pool was a set of 3 hammocks for even more relaxing, napping, or reading. My husband found this shady spot with an amazing view HIS spot to be if I ever needed to find him.
Hula Shores Restaurant

The hotel restaurant, Hula Shores has an amazing variety of steaks, seafood, salads and more, plus great happy hour bites like quesadillas and french fries are guaranteed to appease your appetite. Along with a full bar, you can dine all 3 of your meals on site and you MUST try their Hula Cakes for breakfast topped with bananas and macadamia nuts, topped with syrup or coconut syrup, you will NOT want to leave the island! I loved the steak dinners, enough food to share between the two of us, leaving room for drinks and dessert!Adjacent to the pool there’s a stage for nightly music, but if you can, stay over on a Friday night which is Aloha Friday!

The weekend begins with the Aloha Friday Sunset Celebration. Na Kupuna, Hawaiian “aunties” who entertain through music, hula and mana’o (wisdom), share tales of island lore and culture. Festivities include an age-old island torch lighting ceremony, artisan wares, and a live band all evening.

What a blast, this is just like a family party, the nights and company are warm, friendly, and it’s a huge event for the island for tourists and locals alike! We arrived on the island at 11am, reached the hotel at noon, and stayed poolside ate and drank and finally headed back to our room around 11pm that night and the music played (Hawaiian and modern hits) well until 1-2 am, it was amazing! As every night, we slept with our lanai door open (though they have latch locks) and fell asleep to the music very contently.

Concierge is available on site to direct you to the tour or excursion of your choice, plus there is a small gift shop for your basic needs. If I had to find something that could be improved on, it would be the hot water in the shower. We only used it once a day and the water was warm for just a few short minutes (3-4) enough to do a quick hair wash. Also, there is no direct access to the beach from the property, though there are a few chaise lounges by the pool if you’re quick enough to secure one. The pool is closed nightly while the music events are happening, and I had wished for a spa to watch the sunset in, but the view was stellar regardless.

Our stay at Hotel Molokai was a great one. The property is beautiful and is run very well, and has everything you need to have a relaxing Hawaiian experience.

Many thanks to the Molokai Visitor’s Bureau for hosting our stay and 2 breakfasts. Gratuities were ours as well as all our opinions.

Hawaii Travel: Island Hopping with Island Air and Mokulele Airlines

March 15, 2012 by The Mom Jen 2 Comments

Island Air
From Oahu’s international airport to Lana’i and from Moloka’i back to Oahu, we flew Island Air to Lana’i. The aircraft was a Dash 8 that seated less than 40 passengers, some tourists like ourselves and others returning home from island hopping. The quick 30 minute flight was an easy one, once in the air you feel like you just get settled in with your local HoloHolo magazine when it’s time to prepare for landing.

There is just enough time to get one quick drink either water or guava juice while in flight, on the way to Lana’i we did get a quick briefing from the airline magazine of the island we were approaching. The atmosphere was comfortable around us, locals chatted and asked questions of our visit, it felt like we were in the middle of a family reunion. Stewardess was kind and friendly and we ended being on her flight both times we flew.

Mokulele Airlines

Flying from Lana’i to Honolulu, then from Honolulu to Moloka’i, we flew Mokulele Airlines. Just when we thought our first inter-island flight was small, take a ride on the Cessna that seats 10 and where you are literally THIS close to the pilot….

If you’re a nervous flyer, the propeller on the plane may also make you nervous, but the 30 minute flight goes by in a flash. No stewardess on this flight, nor drinks.

Starting April 15, 2012
Kona-based Mokulele Airlines today announced service between the islands of Lāna‘i and Maui, starting on April 15, 2012. Listening to their customers’ needs, the airline provider is “happy to follow through with providing affordable and needed flights,” said Ron Hansen, Chief Executive Officer of Mokulele Airlines. The airline, recently under new ownership, will provide one daily direct flight from Lāna‘i to Maui and two daily direct trips from Maui to Lāna‘i. The new flights have allowed for an additional morning flight from Lāna‘i (with a brief stop on Moloka‘i) to Honolulu.

Both flights were louder than a normal flight, it reminded me of my Florida by-plane ride, though we were completely enclosed and pressurized. The airports in Lana’i and Moloka’i are easy to maneuver as they are so small (you don’t even have to go through security leaving Lana’i), but the transitions from the Honolulu airport are tricky so pay attention!!

My flights were covered by Lana’i and Moloka’i’s visitor’s bureaus. My husbands flight plus our luggage charges were paid on our own, all opinions are our own.

Traveling Back to Hawaii: Our Moloka’i Itinerary

February 10, 2012 by The Mom Jen Leave a Comment

Today we leave the island of Lana’i and head to Moloka’i. Hawaii’s fifth-largest island, Moloka’i is only 38 miles long and 10 miles across at its widest point. Molokai is home to the highest sea cliffs in the world along its northeast coast (3,600-3,900 feet) and Hawaii’s longest continuous fringing reef (28 miles) off it’s southern coast.

Just a few minutes from the island’s largest city of Kaunakakai, we will enjoy a stay at Hotel Molokai. We will learn what is meant by an open-air guestroom as well as dine at Hula Shores, the hotel’s restaurant featuring Polynesian and Hawaiian cuisine and enjoy local entertainment. Back in Kauanakakai, Coffee’s of Hawaii will show us their 500 acre coffee plantation and gift shop, I can already smell the delicious aromas.

On this island, we’ll take the road less traveled and admire the 1,700 foot cliffs leading to Kalaupapa National Historical Park at the Kalaupapa Lookout and also discover Papohaku Beach, one of Hawaii’s biggest 3-mile white sand beach, I know we’re in for a treat.

On the western part of the island, in Maunaloa town we’ll visit the Big Wind Kite Factory and on the eastern end St. Joseph’s church built by St. Damien will be a stop as well as the waterfalls in Halawa Valley. The island is at our fingertips as we’ll have a car to explore as well as live like a local throughout the weekend.

To visit Moloka’i and create your own Moloka’i itinerary, head to their site, http://www.gohawaii.com/molokai.